Megadeth is a thrash metal band formed in 1983 by guitarist Dave Mustaine. The current lineup has four members: Mustaine, Kiko Loureiro (guitar), James LoMenzo (bass), and Dirk Verbeuren (drums).
They became famous with albums like Rust in Peace and Countdown to Extinction. Known for fast riffs and sharp lyrics, they’re part of metal’s Big Four.
The band has faced many lineup changes, but Dave Mustaine has always led. Megadeth has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and won a Grammy in 2017 for Best Metal Performance.
About the Song
Peace Sells is a thrash metal anthem that tackles political frustration and media stereotypes. With sharp lyrics and a catchy bassline, it questions how society views metal fans and challenges the idea that peace is truly valued.
The song became a voice for rebellion in the 1980s, mixing heavy riffs with bold messages.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | September 19, 1986. |
| Album | Warchest (2007) |
| Writer | Dave Mustaine |
| Producers | Randy Burns & Dave Mustaine |
Peace Sells Lyrics
Verse 1
What do you mean I “don’t believe in God?”
I talk to Him every day
What do you mean I “don’t support your system?”
I go to court when I have to
What do you mean I “can’t get to work on time?”
Got nothing better to do
And, what do you mean I “don’t pay my bills?”
Why do you think I’m broke? Huh?
Refrain
If there’s a new way
Oh, I’ll be the first in line
But it better work this time
Verse 2
What do you mean I “hurt your feelings?”
I didn’t know you had any feelings
What do you mean I “ain’t kind?”
I’m just not your kind
What do you mean I “couldn’t be the president
Of the United States of America?”
Tell me something
It’s still “we the people”, right?
Refrain
If there’s a new way
Oh, I’ll be the first in line
But it better work this time
Instrumental Break
Oh-oh-oh
Bridge
Can you put a price on peace?
Pre-Chorus
Peace, peace sells
Peace, peace sells!
Chorus
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Guitar Solo: Chris Poland
Chorus
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Peace sells, but who’s buying?
Outro
No, no-no-no-no
Peace sells
(Peace sells)
Peace sells!
Argh!
Live Performance of Peace Sells (TV Performance – 1987)
Similar Songs Like Peace Sells
Fans drawn to the sharp edge of Peace Sells will find these songs deliver their own powerful takes on thrash metal’s finest moments:
- Wake Up Dead: Sneaky, sinister, and full of surprises, this track twists through betrayal and paranoia, with riffs that bite and a rhythm that never lets up.
- The Conjuring: Dark magic and forbidden deals drive this song, blending sinister lyrics with technical wizardry, making it feel dangerous and unpredictable.
- Devil’s Island: Raw and relentless, this track tells a story of imprisonment and escape, with pounding drums and a chorus that demands to be shouted.
- Good Mourning/Black Friday: A wild ride through chaos and revenge, this two-part song shifts moods, mixing melody with madness for a truly unforgettable experience.
Similar Bands Like Megadeth
If you appreciate Megadeth’s blend of technical skill, biting lyrics, and thrash energy, these bands offer a kindred spirit:
- Metallica
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top Albums: Master of Puppets (1986), Ride the Lightning (1984) - Slayer
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top Albums: Reign in Blood (1986), South of Heaven (1988) - Anthrax
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top Albums: Among the Living (1987), Persistence of Time (1990) - Testament
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top Albums: The New Order (1988), Practice What You Preach (1989) - Exodus
Genre: Thrash Metal
Top Albums: Bonded by Blood (1985), Fabulous Disaster (1989)
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Peace Sells been Used on TV or in Games?
Yes, it was the theme for MTV News and appears in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, a nod to its cultural impact.
How did the Album Peace Sells do on the Charts?
The album reached #76 on the Billboard 200 chart in the U.S., which was a strong showing for a thrash metal record at the time.
What Inspired the Song Title?
Mustaine saw Peace sells, but nobody’s buying it in a Patti Smith interview and adapted it for the song.
